What is the Difference Between an F1, F1b, and F2 Labradoodle?

F1 Generation- An F1 Labradoodle is simply a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador. The result is a 50% poodle and 50% Labrador mix. F1 Labradoodles may or MAY NOT shed less than a Labrador. They may or MAY NOT be hypoallergenic- This depends on the severity of the individuals allergy sensitivity, along with the coat of the dog. F1's can have a straight, short coat, wavey, long coat, or a thicker fleece coat. F1's can be high energy, the same as a Labrador, or medium energy.

F1b Generation- An F1b Labradoodle is a poodle bred back to an F1 Labradoodle. The result is a 75% Poodle and a 25% Labrador. These dogs may or MAY NOT shed. The curlier F1b dogs will NOT shed- as they acquire more of the poodles curly coat. F1b doodles can also have a wavy coat, like an F1. These dogs are generally hypoallergenic. F1b's are medium energy level.

F2 Generation- An F2 Labradoodle is an F1b Labradoodle bred back to a poodle. The result is an 87% poodle and 13% Labrador. These dogs are non shedding, and hypoallergenic. They are medium/medium low energy level.

Purchasing a Labradoodle should be based on a few different criteria- If the person purchasing the dog has allergies, this needs to be a priority, as different types of doodles, i.e. F1, F1b, F2 all will have different coat and dander characteristics. Generally, its the dander of a dogs coat that causes allergies, not the fur or hair itself.

If allergies ARE NOT an issue, one can base which style of Doodle to purchase based on physical attributes, as well as physical performance. An F1 will generally be more athletic than an F1b or F2, as it has more Labrador mixed with it, however, all 3 generations- F1, F1b and F2 are active, sporting dogs which require a fair amount of exercise. My Labradooodles are cross bred with a poodle and an American Field Labrador. American Field Labradors are the hunting version of Labrador- taller, leaner, more muscular and much more energetic than their English Labrador counterpart.